Dancing in the rain.

Life has been difficult... Painful. My wife and I at times have been
"poor in spirit." we both struggle with doubts... "God? Are you there?
Do you care? Are you going to do anything about this chronic health
problem? It's ruining life!"

Lately, he has given me some reassurance. God, in dramatic fashion,
pulled my wife's health out of the gutter and gave her a month of
respite in time for our trip to Maui. It was a blessing. I have to
believe if he cared enough for a trip... He cares even more about the
rest of her life.

Van hasn't been able to remain as hopeful recently, and I begged God
to show up and give her a sign that he cares and is still in this.
The very next morning after I poured my heart out in request, she
received an email from someone she didn't believe had her new email
address and it included some great scripture and the saying, "don't
wait for the storm to end, learn to dance in the rain."

I've been praying asking God, "what on Earth could you possibly want
to teach us to allow this pain to continue?!!" and I think that is
it. He wants us to learn to be joyful and dance in the rain... Not
merely "survive" and wait for the storm to end.

I was convicted as well. What have I done as the spiritual leader of
my marriage? I've prayed and focused on my spiritual walk, but I
haven't led other than by example. We waste 3 hours every night
watching TV because Van feels too crappy to do much else. I need to
lead us into pursuit of the face of Christ. He alone gives joy that
can help us "dance in the rain."

This is my mission. Holy Spirit, empower me. Transform us. Help us to
dance in the rain.

David